Cool things to do in West Sussex this summer
No time for boredom with our pick of summer fun
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West Sussex awaits! Whether you're here for our unspoilt coastline, our wealth of cultural delights and array of great things to do, our miles of footpaths and cycle routes or to soak up a warm West Sussex welcome at outstanding places to eat and drink, there's something memorable for everyone to enjoy. Let your adventures begin.
Discover Chichester, the vibrant cathedral city and county capital of West Sussex. Immerse yourself in rich history with impressive Roman ruins and outstanding culture or explore the stunning countryside and rolling South Downs. Enjoy endless walking and cycling opportunities, charming towns and villages like Midhurst and Petworth, and the sparkling Sussex coast, home to beautiful beaches like West Wittering, East Wittering, Bracklesham Bay and Selsey.
Just over an hour from London and just under an hour from London Gatwick Airport, our stunning, sunny corner of Sussex is closer than you think!
The Great Sussex Way is here to help you find GREAT things to do in Chichester and the the surrounding area, read on for more ideas…
The South Downs National Park is one of the top West Sussex attractions encompassing majestic rolling hills, heathland, rivers, and more woodland that any other national park in England or Wales – including some of the most ancient forests in the country - making it a perfect playground for those who love the outdoors, whether that’s on two feet or on a bike. As well as epic walking trails including The South Downs Way, here you’ll find important habitats for wildlife, including rare species like the Adonis and Chalkhill Blue Butterflies.
One of the South Coast’s best loved beaches, once you’ve experienced the golden sands of West Wittering beach between your toes it’s easy to see why. Long stretches of soft sand and shallow water make it perfect for families, while also offering an abundance of opportunities for adrenaline seekers to enjoy the waves. Often extremely busy in summer (we recommend booking parking to avoid disappointment), quieter spots can be found at neighbouring East Wittering or a little further along the coast at Selsey.
Goodwood, for many, is a name synonymous with incredible events like the Festival of Speed, the Qatar Goodwood Festival or the Goodwood Revival, which draw visitors from across the globe. The sporting country estate which covers 12,000 acres of stunning Sussex countryside is also home to a stylish Hotel and Spa, unforgettable dining experiences, golf courses, and the opportunity for high-energy adventures in the air, on the Motor Circuit and more.
Just ten miles from Chichester, discover almost a thousand years of history at Arundel Castle. A captivating day out with a huge amount original features to explore including the Norman Keep, medieval Gatehouse and the 14th Century Catholic Fitzalan Chapel, there's a huge amount to see, plus action-packed events and the annual floral celebrations each spring as the Tulip Festival and Allium Extravaganza surround the castle with vivid swathes of colour.
No time for boredom with our pick of summer fun
Relax in stunning surroundings, with a local tipple or two
From cosy country inns to sunny pub gardens, or elegant wine bars and restaurants.
Lose yourself in our truly 'aMAZEing' sunflower maze this August. With a beautiful array of…
Chichester950 Code Breaker Trail Families are invited to come and enjoy a new summer sculpture…
Join Wilfrid the Seal on a journey of discovery in Chichester Cathedral's latest family trail…
To mark our 950th anniversary, we are delighted to present Religion, Rebellion & Reformation, an…
Living in the UK we are surrounded by the sea which contains some beautiful and marvelous…
Morgan runs a community choir who meet weekly in a room above the local pub to sing great pop songs…
Polo matches are played throughout the week from April - September in two locations, Ambersham…
Cowdray’s Maize Maze is Back – With a Wild West Twist! Looking for a brilliant day out…
A new destination for contemporary art in the UK, the Goodwood Art Foundation features the work of…
Between now and October (excluding August), Arundel Museum will be holding a vibrant new exhibition…
Hurrah for Shippam's Come and discover the story behind one of Chichester's most iconic…
Each Tuesday at 1.10pm (apart from during school holidays) the Cathedral hosts a lunchtime concert…
Summer Family Fun at Petworth House & Park (National Trust) Families are invited to set sail on…
This summer, discover creative short courses hosted across the beautiful estates of Petworth House…
Seeing Each Other: Portraits of Artists This landmark exhibition presents over 130 works that delve…
Our Junior Golf Camps are perfect for children aged 5 - 13, welcoming young golfers of all skill…
Get ready for an unforgettable summer at Aldingbourne Country Centre! Our Super Six Weeks of Summer…
Falstaff is skint. Dismissing his band of reprobate followers is simply insufficient to shore up his…
Time & Tide is a collective exhibition showcasing the work of award winning plein air artists…
You're invited to the musical equivalent of a finest vintage champagne. Effervescent, elegant…
Schools out for summer and the bell has rung for playtime. Explore the evolution of toys and games…
For the first time in 20 years, a wide range of JMW Turner's artistic studies of the…
Enjoy an exclusive tour of the famous West Dean Gardens with two senior and knowledgeable members of…
Multi artist exhibition
“Andy Warhol: My True Story”, curated by Jean Wainwright at Newlands House Gallery…
Image: Joanna Kaczorowska